Several holiday-themed events are scheduled to take place across Raleigh in December, offering activities for all ages at various historic sites and parks.
The City of Raleigh Museum will host the First Friday Holiday Sip n’ Shop on December 5 from 5 to 9 p.m. Attendees can shop for gifts from local artists and craftspeople while enjoying a beverage and viewing museum exhibits.
On December 6, Latta University Historic Park and Fred Fletcher Park will present “Gingerbread and a Jolly Trolley Ride.” Participants can visit Latta University Historic Park before riding the trolley to Fletcher Park, where they will decorate gingerbread houses inspired by the Latta House. The event begins at 1 p.m.
Moore Square Winterfaire, organized by Raleigh Parks and MAKRS, is set for December 11 through December 14. The European-inspired market features more than 60 vendors, food trucks, live bands, Santa appearances, s’mores, a beer garden, and other attractions. The festival runs Thursday and Friday from 5 to 9 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Historic Raleigh Trolley will offer “Santa’s Trolley” rides on December 12-14 at various times each evening. Riders are invited to help Holly the Elf find Santa in time for Christmas.
Mordecai Historic Park will hold its Merry and Bright Market on December 13 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring vendors with unique gifts, craft activities, seasonal entertainment, and tours of the decorated Mordecai House during the annual Open House weekend.
The park’s Holiday Open House takes place on both December 13 (10 a.m.–3 p.m.) and December 14 (1–4 p.m.), giving visitors an opportunity to see how the Mordecai House has been decorated over its history while learning about different holiday traditions through music, games, crafts, and guided walks.
On December 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Pope House Museum hosts “Holidays with the Popes,” offering period-accurate decorations, music, games, guided tours about early twentieth-century holiday customs, and complimentary treats.
All events are open to all ages; some are free of charge or may include special activities related to Raleigh’s historical heritage.
